TBF it seems a highly inefficient way to move packages in its current form. I'd sooner see an automated truck move around that honks when it's in front of its destination. Or just standardized package dropboxes placed in central locations (on the street in neighbourhoods, in front of apartment buildings, etc).
Agreed, which is why I'm asking what the simplest applications of it might be. It feels like it will be incredibly useful technology, but possibly a long way off any compelling application aside from the military ones that they're pulling out of.
Best I can think of for this is in the area of mobility. Watching it get up stairs and hills makes me think that (with some changes to the form factor) it stands a chance of significantly improving the lives of people who are currently bound to wheelchairs.
That niche is already covered by organic dogs, though; perhaps these robotic dogs are meant to be a replacement that requires less training expenditures?
I mean most niche's that have been automated were covered by organic capabilities previously. The idea is reducing costs and removing those organic capabilities from dangerous or fatigue inducing situations.
